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April 30, 2025 by vejpkollen.se

The Swedish government criticizes Spain's plan to restrict nicotine pouches to 0.99 mg, considering it a potential ban that affects Swedish interests. Minister Benjamin Dousa emphasizes that while not health products, in areas where smoking is permitted, nicotine pouches should be too. Sweden's low smoking rates attributed to snus make the government advocate for less severe regulations. Spain's concerns about nicotine addiction are countered by Sweden's arguments for balance and measures like age limits. The government's strong stance defends Swedish products and stresses the need for proportionate EU regulations. Nicotine pouches' positive health impact compared to cigarettes is highlighted amidst EU-wide restrictions.

April 29, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

The Swedish government plans to challenge Spain’s proposed ban on nicotine pouches at the EU level by submitting a Detailed Opinion to delay implementation. Sweden argues that pouches should be allowed where smoking is permitted. France has a similar ban, but with even stricter penalties. Although Sweden is exempt from the EU's ban on tobacco-containing snus, this exemption does not apply to nicotine pouches. The Minister assured that Sweden will oppose any EU-wide ban on pouches as long as their government is in power.

April 28, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

A report reveals that distributing free vapes in Calderdale, UK, increased successful quit rates from 64% to 75%. Yorkshire Cancer Research funded the trial, showing vapes as effective in aiding cessation. Yorkshire Smokefree Calderdale now offers vape kits alongside other support services. Of the 1,110 participants, 77% using vapes or NRT quit successfully after four weeks. Vapes were preferred over other methods, especially by women and those aged 55-59, and proved cost-effective. The trial positively impacted disadvantaged communities, with 82% finding the offer of a vape device encouraging. Similar schemes in the UK have also led to successful vaping transitions among smokers.

April 25, 2025 by err.ee

The Riigikogu passed a law enforcing an EU directive banning flavored heated tobacco products next year to deter smoking, especially among the youth. Vaping products with high nicotine content and flavors remain exempt. Legislators are considering future regulations on vaping. A school principal supports the ban on heated tobacco products due to teenage vaping. Studies show an increase in youth vaping, with strong support for an e-cigarette ban. Vaping is popular among teens, posing health risks and challenges for enforcement. Legislation banning flavored e-cigarettes is in place. Despite concerns, enforcement and regulations on vaping remain a future consideration.

April 25, 2025 by greekcitytimes.com

Greece's conservative government plans to ban flavored alternative tobacco products, excluding natural tobacco and mint. The legislation aims to restrict minors' access to alcohol and tobacco, eliminating popular flavors appealing to youth and potentially affecting 10,000 employees. The bill, nearing completion, faces challenges, like needing EU approval and criticism for possibly restricting adult consumers. Despite the high smoking rate, analysts support the focus on limiting underage access. The move aligns with ongoing EU discussions on revising tobacco laws amid the rise of alternative products like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco.

April 24, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Spain's smoking rates dropped last year, but new restrictions on vapes and nicotine alternatives may reverse this progress. Proposed regulations include an excise duty and flavor bans, limiting nicotine strength, and hindering access. Unlike Spain, Sweden has successfully reduced smoking rates by embracing safer alternatives. Spain risks missing an opportunity for positive change by imposing stringent limitations that contradict successful strategies. The country has struggled with high smoking rates, leading to numerous tobacco-related deaths. Learning from Sweden's success could be key to further reducing smoking rates in Spain.

April 23, 2025 by euractiv.com

Greece's conservative government is preparing a bill to ban all flavoured alternative tobacco products, except for natural tobacco and mint. Although Greece has typically resisted stricter regulations on these products, recent incidents involving underage alcohol consumption have strengthened the case for tougher measures. The draft law aims to limit minors’ access to tobacco and alcohol and would remove popular flavours like chocolate and watermelon from the market. This could impact around 10,000 jobs, including 2,000 specialized retailers. The bill is in its final consultation phase, but it’s still uncertain if the flavour ban will remain in the final version.

April 23, 2025 by greekreporter.com

Greece is preparing a bill to ban all flavoured e-cigarettes and alternative tobacco products, aiming to make their sale out-of-reach for Greek teenagers. Under the draft law, flavours like biscuit, chocolate, watermelon, fruit and even whiskey, which are particularly popular among both teenagers and adults, would be pulled off the market, with only tobacco and mint flavours spared. The e-cigarette sector in Greece employs about 10,000 people, including 2,000 specialized retailers.

April 22, 2025 by news-medical.net

British disposable vape ban announcement in 2024 led to a decline in e-cigarette use rates, with users switching to refillable devices. A study tracked these changes, highlighting the influence of policy on health decisions. Since 2021, youth vaping surged due to disposable vapes' appeal, prompting UK bans in 2025. Manufacturers now offer reusable alternatives. Findings suggest a shift away from disposables, indicating potential declines in vape usage. Policies play a crucial role in curbing vaping trends. Researchers analyzed data from the Smoking Toolkit Study, revealing a shift towards refillable devices post-ban. The move towards sustainability in vaping indicates positive environmental impacts but may not drastically reduce overall vaping rates.

April 18, 2025 by itv.com

Illicit nicotine pouches are flooding the UK, posing health risks, especially to children. These legal products, initially designed to help adults quit smoking, are unregulated and can be highly potent. Trading Standards reported a 112% increase in seizures, with over 8,000 confiscated in a year. Nicotine pouches are popular among teenagers due to their flavors and packaging but can lead to nicotine poisoning. Experts suggest regulating their nicotine content to protect public health. Concerns include accidental ingestion by children, addiction, and adverse effects on mental health. Legislation aims to prevent sales to minors and curb appealing branding, but calls for further restrictions persist.